Scammers are using AI to create fake dating profiles and lure lonely users into dangerous traps, leaving many unable to tell what’s real.

AI Love Scams Exploding as Minnesota Daters Fall for Fake Profiles and Sweet-Talking Bots!

Scammers are using AI to create fake dating profiles and lure lonely users into dangerous traps, leaving many unable to tell what’s real. 🌐 #News #StPaulMN #Minnesota #Crime

ST. PAUL, MN – AI is taking over online dating, and it’s not just for crafting clever pick-up lines anymore. As Minnesota singles turn to artificial intelligence for dating advice, scammers are cashing in on the trend—tricking users with fake profiles, AI-generated conversations, and convincing photos that are difficult to spot.

A study by Norton, part of Gen’s consumer Cyber Safety brand, revealed that more than half (55%) of online daters come across suspicious profiles weekly. Around 40% of those surveyed said they had been targeted by scams while using dating platforms. But what’s even more alarming? Sixty percent of online daters believe they’ve had conversations generated by AI without realizing it.

AI: Love Coach or Scam Artist?

Generative AI is now a personal dating assistant for many users. Sixty-four percent of daters admitted they’d be willing to let AI write their pick-up lines. Sixty-three percent would use AI to help craft their profiles, and 60% would go as far as using AI as a dating coach. But while AI can give shy singles a boost of confidence, it’s also helping scammers create realistic personas that lure victims into their traps.

One of the most troubling aspects is that most users can’t tell real from fake. When tested, only 46% of participants could correctly identify an AI-generated image. Meanwhile, 27% reported seeing their own photos misused on other profiles without permission.

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“As AI becomes more ingrained in how people interact and present themselves online, it’s critical to recognize both its benefits and the ways it can be manipulated by bad actors,” said Leyla Bilge, Director of Scam Research for Norton.

“With online dating offering more ways to connect than ever before, it’s also giving scammers more opportunities to exploit people.”

Scammers are using AI to create fake dating profiles and lure lonely users into dangerous traps, leaving many unable to tell what’s real. Photo courtesy Norton.

Scammers Are Winning

The Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report found that 40% of current dating app users have already been targeted by scams. Worse yet, 41% of those targeted fell victim. And the numbers are only climbing—64% more dating scams were blocked in the U.S. last year compared to the year before.

The most common schemes reported by users include catfishing (55%), romance scams (34%), sugar daddy or sugar baby schemes (32%), and sextortion scams (31%).

Scammers often prey on lonely users, who are more vulnerable to manipulation. Norton’s survey revealed that 79% of respondents reported feelings of loneliness, and 20% admitted it pushed them into making riskier choices online.

Spotting the Red Flags

Bilge warned that common scam tactics include avoiding video or phone calls, inconsistencies between someone’s profile and their messages, and attempts to quickly escalate emotional connections or extract personal information.

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Daters are advised to avoid sharing sensitive details like their home address or financial information early in conversations. Norton suggests users run a reverse image search to verify profile photos and rely on video or phone calls to confirm someone’s identity before meeting in person.

Scammers may also try love bombing, overwhelming victims with gifts or flattery as a way to gain trust. Alternatively, they may suddenly ask for money under the guise of an emergency.

AI Detection Tools Could Save Victims

For those unsure whether they’re being scammed, Norton recommends using Norton Genie, a free AI-powered app that can detect malicious texts, emails, or suspicious web links.

As online dating grows more complex, users must stay cautious and rely on every tool available to avoid falling into a scammer’s web.

RELATED TOPICS: Lifestyle | Scams | Tech

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